[A group of Commonwealth observers in a past event in Kenya. Britain colonies have withdrawn observers ahead of Thursday polls. Photo/Nation]
Britain and her colonies has withdrawn observers ahead of Thursday's presidential repeat poll, citing security fears for its team.
Diplomatic sources told the Nation that teh decision to withdraw was precipitated by tension ahead of polls and subsequent withdrwal of Raila Odinga from the race.
"Everybody cited security fears. They felt that they cannot observe an election which officials have also been targeted," said an official who requested anonymity.
Under Commonwealth, an official for the urgency said that it had reached the decision after exploring the political situation.
Their statement comes moments after EU and a section of diplomats associated with the West insisted hat elections should go on as planned.
"The commonwealth is not deploying and election observation group for presidential elections," the agency said.
Despite the latest move, EU will however send observers although it has significantly reduced the number while AU has deployed over 80 officials.
Commonwealth brings together British colonies, UK and some Portuguese colonies with Rwanda inclusive.
IEBC has already assured Kenyans of preparedness although chairman Wafula Chebukati had ruled out delivering a credible poll.